University Report Card Highlights Progress on Implementation of Trent’s Strategic Directions

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

From the Board of Governors’ Meeting – Friday, March 28, 2008

University Report Card

A Report Card produced by Trent University on its progress in implementing its Strategic Directions confirms an improvement in the number of small class sizes in first and second year, that faculty to student ratios have dropped, and that 80 per cent of all graduating students would recommend the University if they were to start their studies again.

The Report Card, produced by the Office of Institutional Research and Planning, is a measurement tool that annually assesses and monitors the University’s progress in implementing goals in the University’s Strategic Directions document.

Some of the findings in the Report Card confirm:

• 70 per cent of seminars that students take have less than 20 students (up from 65 per cent the previous year)
• 86 per cent of 3rd and 4th year upper lectures have less than 50 students (up from 85 per cent the previous year)
• 83 per cent of labs and seminars have less than 20 students (up from 79 per cent the previous year)
• 60 per cent of first and second year class sizes had less than 50 students (up from 45 per cent the previous year)
• Student to faculty ratios have dropped from 19:1 to 18:1 from the previous year
• 90 per cent of Trent students agree their professors treat them as individuals, not just as another number
• 40 per cent of classes are taught with the use of instructional technology
• 80 per cent of graduating students were satisfied by their educational experience on campus
• 80 per cent of graduating students would recommend the University if they were starting out over again
• 80 per cent of graduate students are satisfied with their overall experience with the University

The report examines a number of metrics covering four areas: Student and Alumni Outcomes; Commitment to Our Employees; Revenue Allocation and Fiscal Health; and the Academic Mission.

A copy of the Report Card can be obtained at: http://www.trentu.ca/oirsp/accountability.php

Eminent Service Award Winner

Trent University is pleased to announce that long-time staff member Susan (Tui) Menzies will receive the prestigious 2008 Eminent Service Award.

A member of the University’s administrative team since 1982, Ms. Menzies is being recognized for her tireless efforts ensuring the smooth operation of Julian Blackburn College (JBC) and her leadership supporting the establishment of Trent University in Oshawa.

Created in 1978, the Eminent Service Award recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the life of the University. Through this award Trent honours those who have demonstrated excellence in the performance of duties and activities related to their primary relationship with the University – as staff, as faculty or as volunteers. In addition, the Eminent Service Award recognizes those with a track record of outstanding contributions to University life that go beyond the performance of their job or volunteer role.

Ms. Menzies will be honoured during Trent’s convocation ceremonies in June.

Honorary Board Member Recognized

The Board recognized Honorary Board member Mr. Len Vernon, who recently retired as a Board of Governor member, for his years of service. Mr. Vernon served three terms on the Board including Vice Chair and was a member of Trent’s first graduating class.

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For more information contact:

Brittany Cadence, Communications Officer, (705) 748-1011, ext. 6185